October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a vital time to highlight the importance of early detection, education, and support for those affected by this disease. Breast cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the breast tissue, often detected through lumps or changes in breast shape.
STATISTICS
Globally, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women, with approximately 2.3 million new cases reported in 2020.
In Kenya, the situation is alarming; breast cancer is the leading cancer among women, with around 6,000 new cases diagnosed each year. Early detection through self-exams and mammograms significantly improves survival rates.
According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. Early detection is therefore crucial for treatment and survival.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS TO LOOK OUT FOR:
Changes in how the breast looks or feels (skin tenderness, a lump or change in skin texture)
Changes in appearance
unexplained changes in size or shape
unexplained swelling or shrinking
dimpling anywhere on the breast
Scaly, red, or swollen skin on any part of the breast.
Any discharge from the breast, particularly clear or bloody
TREATMENT
Treatment options for breast cancer vary based on the stage and type of cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. Advances in treatment have greatly increased survival rates, with the global five-year survival rate now reaching about 90% for localized cases.
WHY PINK OCTOBER?
Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of regular screenings and healthy lifestyle choices. It encourages women to become proactive about their health, understand risk factors, and seek medical advice promptly. Community support and educational initiatives play a crucial role in fighting this disease.
By raising awareness and fostering early detection, we can work together to reduce the impact of breast cancer and support those affected. Let’s unite this October in the fight against breast cancer—because awareness can save lives.
WHAT TO DO:
Adopt a healthier lifestyle
About one in four breast cancers can be prevented by modifying risk factors and adopting healthier lifestyle choices. The most important lifestyle choices to consider are to exercise regularly, to maintain a healthy weight and to avoid alcohol consumption. Recent studies have shown that maintaining a balanced diet and body weight can affect breast cancer risks for women 10, 20 or even 30 years later.
Early Detection
Healthy lifestyle choices are important but not enough alone. We must regularly look out for any breast abnormalities and seek medical advice with any concerns. This is known as breast awareness. Some women prefer to perform self-examinations. This can help.
The most important action is to be routinely monitoring our breast for any abnormality and reporting any concerns to your health care provider.
Look out for more content on Breast cancer awareness in blogs to come.
For more resources look into: Faraja Cancer Support
Till next time.
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